Gardening & Family Adventures

Like a Flash!

2010-09-15T17:43:00.004-06:00

I have really enjoyed Shorty this fall, especially watching her take part in cross country. Running a couple miles every day at practice, being in good physical condition, a very encouraging coach, potlucks with the team, meets, and so forth.

Here she is at one of the meets. I took this with my mobile, as she was zipping by. She was hustling, striding out at the end of the 4k run. She cut a minute off her time in this race vs. the previous one!!

One of the things we as parents really love, is that everyone participates in every cross country event. The top 7 or so run varsity, then 15 or so run JV, and the rest run as well. There is also a shorter mile race for middle schoolers. And something else -- the girls and the boys are all there together! I can't think of another sport that is like this. I think it is really great.

Parents are fun to experience as well. Some parents run across the course so they can see their kids and cheer them on multiple times in the course of a 4k or a 5k run. Me? Not so much. I have a chair for the bad back, and I really enjoy taking in all the sights: kids warming up, kids warming down, the races, chatting with other parents, and mostly the encouragement that everyone gives to the runners.

Very fun!!

Beginnings

2010-09-07T19:10:00.007-06:00

Firsts & last firsts today -- S's first day of high school. A's last first day of high school. G's last first day of elementary school & last first day at the bus stop! God bless all the kids.

It was a bit chilly at the bus stop. I actually had to wear a coat, with my flip flops.

I am Loved

2010-08-06T12:29:00.001-06:00

Someone loves, me indeed.

Look what they gave me? Mmmm...

Clair de Lune

2010-05-12T14:31:00.006-06:00

I just love this interpretation of Debussy's Clair de Lune, by Van Cliburn.

M. Peeders, my late piano teacher, played it in her last recital in 2009. Because of these two works of artistry, I am inspired to learn this piece next. I hope I can do it justice -- and I plan to do my very best to this end!!

Practice makes...better?

2010-05-07T12:31:00.004-06:00

I'll be playing in a piano recital a week from Sunday. I'm not too nervous -- yet.

Today I went over to our church to play on the grand piano that I will be playing for the recital. Like all pianos, it has its own intricacies and "feel" of the keys, the pedal, and so forth. I worked on some of the rough spots of the piece and tried to let my hands sing in other parts. It was a good time!

Here is the object of my practice. Beautiful, isn't it?

I hope that I can do the instrument justice. And that I can make my piano teachers (current and "angel") proud.

Scary, Very Scary

2010-05-03T12:03:00.005-06:00

The Little Kid took the photo shown below, at the Zoo a couple weeks ago. She was with her Girl Scout troop experiencing "Day with the Dolphins." They toured the dolphin exhibits and learned about care and feeding, tricks and so forth. They also saw some sharks.

They slept by the dolphin & shark tank, listening to the water, splashing, and the live water animals all night. This made a great impression on her--she kept bringing up how cool it was, and all the interesting facts that she learned!

So now, check out these teeth-wow!!

Yummy!!

2010-05-02T19:28:00.006-06:00

Beautiful spring day! The sounds of birds singing, lawn mowers being fired up, many for the first time of the season, smells of outdoor grilling...awesome day.

Our lilacs are just about in full bloom. They stand just in front of an apple tree that blooms gorgeous every spring (and luckily leaves no messy apples in its wake).

These lilacs SMELL as delicious as they LOOK!!

Family Fun-Grandma's Birthday

2010-05-01T18:29:00.005-06:00

Photo of the day-several photos, taken last week at T's parents' house...family fun!!

We were celebrating Grandma's birthday, with a fun and scrumptious dinner and light chocolaty & delicious birthday cake!!

Slow 'Er Down!!

2010-04-28T09:52:00.004-06:00

Days are busy. Busy, busy, busy!

So last Saturday, it was especially nice to stop. Sit. Talk. Catch up. With a couple dear friends.

The lawn? Laundry? Bank? Grocery store? It can all wait. Just for a little while...

80 EIGHTY Reasons Why I Love My Dad

2010-04-27T14:26:00.002-06:00

Yesterday was my dad's 80th birthday. What an accomplishment--for a man with a pretty accomplished life. Here are 80 reasons why I love him:

1. His name is Drew, which is a cool name.
2. Drew also happens to be a family name. Dad's mom's maiden name. So it has significance in that way.
3. He is a happy guy.
4. He was smart and smitten and married Mom.
5. He played catch with me as a kid.
6. He taught me how to ice skate. He on speed skates, me on figure skates. He skating backwards, me skating forwards. Then hand in hand, "promenade" style.
7. He had a cool job at a bank in downtown Chicago, and once in a while we got to go downtown and visit him.
8. He is a Cub's fan and instilled in me that love for them, even though they are the world's most hapless team!
9. He let me "cut" and "style" his hair, like a barber would, as a kid.
10. He coached some of my softball teams.
11. His love of music inspired me to start piano (the whole family's did, in fact).
12. He was committed to a job at his bank for 36 years, which helped us have a good and stable home life.
13. He made us laugh because he definitely was not handy around the house!
14. Rides on bicycles-built-for-two were super fun, several times on family vacations.
15. He likes Dairy Queen, and so do I.
16. He loves Mom, and so do I.
17. He showed by example what it takes to practice something and work hard, until one gets good at it.
18. He used to play jazz piano.
19. Played competitive doubles tennis for many years.
20. Made church and worshiping God a priority, which was a good example for me.
21. Showed good example of hard work, by reading up and working every evening, when he could.
22. Took me and my brother Dave many times to on the El to the Cub game.
23. Has that endearing "uh" thing when he talks. Which I inherited.
24. I used to get a kick out of him doing Jack LaLane exercises some evenings. Complete with a little pamphlet with pictures.
25. Has cool and nice brothers with their kids (my cousins). I like them ok, although as a kid it was kind of a drag, because they were all boys and all younger than me.
26. I think it was pretty awesome that he took my brother to the Olympics in 1972? 1976? The year that Bruce Jenner won the decathlon.
27. He has always endured our ribbing about having one shoulder (he separated it about college age playing touch football).
28. His jiggas have always been cute.
29. Also endured the ribbing from a photo with my brother Dave, where we called the two of them "Before and After."
30. Encouraged Mom to go to painting class, following her passion.
31. Took up clarinet again in later adulthood and shares his skill and passion for this to this day.
32. Excelled in platform tennis.
33. Travelled around the world on his job and brought home cool stuff. Like a puzzle box from Japan, a fan, a watch that I still have from Saudi Arabia.
34. Was "MOY san" to business associates in...Japan. (?)
35. Put shoe goo on his tennis shoes from rubbing his toe serving tennis, like there was no tomorrow.
36. Used to have the coolest flat dark brown Charlie Brown baseball glove.
37. Let me join in the Sunday NFL football "pools" when we picked all the winners each week. And didn't make (too much) fun of me when I picked teams by the color of their jerseys.
38. Stopped smoking as a young adult, which I am guessing has prolonged his life.
39. Taught me Arp language. Then tolerated it when Dave and I talked in it incessantly.
40. He & mom were good sports when I was learning magic tricks and was really bad at it. "Nothing in the cup!"
41. Taught me how to play pingpong downstairs in the basement.
42. Dragged me to Dave's track meets, teaching me to support my brother.
43. Supported all my efforts at playing softball -- all the summer leagues as a kid, driving me where I needed to be, signing me up, being friendly to the coaches.
44. He and mom watched more softball, basketball, field hockey, etc. games than I'm sure they can count.
45. He and mom went along to Pekin twice when we went downstate in high school softball.
46. Lately he has taken time to volunteer with troubled youth, as a support during their times of transition.
47. He let me be his partner in Bridge for family Bridge games, even though I was always the weakest player. He allowed table talk so that I could follow along and not be at such a disadvantage.
48. He and mom made me go to bed early when we were young, so we got ample sleep and were more school-ready.
49. He used to let me sip the bubbles off his beer, just as a little treat.
50. He & mom supported me and encouraged me to take piano as a kid and through high school. They sent me to a great music school to help me develop my musical abilities.
51. Entertained us playing the ukulele.
52. Let me weed his backyard as a college student to earn money, even though it was a dirty, sweaty job.
53. Allowed me to inherit his generous nose. :)
54. Always supported Mom and reminded us of her point of view. Very much a team-oriented parent.
55. Never grew a beard.
56. Did not wear crazy wide lapels and ties with bellbottoms in the 70s. At least not for very long.
57. Always knew when to call a handyman. Which was pretty much always!
58. Took Mom to Banff for their 50th wedding anniversary.
59. Keeps Mom happy by taking her shopping for shoes, often.
60. Goes every year to Sanibel Island-to take a break and get Mom out of the cold Chicago winter.
61. Loves the Cubs unfailingly, always. He & mom watch every single game.
62. Traveled to the Rose Bowl to support Northwestern University in their dream year.
63. Practices clarinet downstairs in the basement so as not to disturb Mom.
64. He doesn't swear. In fact, I don't think that I have hardly ever heard him swear at all.
65. He & mom have a whole bunch of TVs in their house so that we can all spread out and watch different shows when we come visit.
66. He has the greatest belly laugh.
67. He has an imminently positive attitude.
68. When he kinda figured out about the surprise 75th bday party at Wrigley Field, he still acted completely surprised.
69. He advised my Grandma in the finances for her nursing home, The Georgian, bringing it out of sure financial ruin.
70. When he was a kid himself, he got along with his brothers (one older, one younger) by always saying "me too" when they had an idea and wanted him to join in.
71. Bought a couple Wisconsin houses by Lake Michigan for Mom and him, until they got it right.
72. Loved the '62, '70, and '77 Buick LeSabres!
73. Came to visit me in Germany when I was in college. I had just been through a boyfriend breakup, so it was especially special that he came and we got to spend time together.
74. He walked me down the aisle on my wedding day and gave me his very best wishes. (and didn't act too happy to send me off on my new life!)
75. Periodically is really good at supportive pep talks, articulating how proudhe & Mom are of me and my life, family, children, and so forth.
76. He is a friendly sort. I believe that he has the ability to befriend just about anyone.
77. He plays golf with some buddies and has managed not to lose his shirt on the friendly golfing bets that they make.
78. He gave me the funnest bike rides on the crossbar of his bike when I would go pick him up at the train station.
79. Plays clarinet duets with my daughter Sarah.
80. All in all, he is the most wonderful, Dad, son, brother, husband, Grandpa and friend to all who know and love him!!

2010-04-25T10:52:00.002-06:00

Photo of the day--Me and The Little Kid at Shorty's softball game.

More to come another day!!

Installation One-Photo of the Day

2010-04-23T12:37:00.002-06:00

Haven't posted for ages!

Thought I would keep it simple, with a photo of the day. See if this helps.

Today is one of my very favorite events at our kids' elementary school. The 4th grade state float parade. The entire 4th grade takes part in a parade with their floats, which each feature highlight information on their assigned state. The Little Kid had Kentucky -- she had fun researching and putting it into this float! Very exciting day!!

Snowy Christmas

2009-12-26T16:46:00.010-06:00

This Christmas has been very snowy!! We have had about 12-14" of snow, freezing rain, and ice, in various combinations throughout the past several days. It has caused a lot of disruption to Christmas traditions, all across the Midwest. Travel plans were foiled. Some people were "snowed out", while others were "snowed in." We chose to venture out sparingly and mainly stayed close to home. Our Christmas celebrations were altered, but not hindered.

First we got 6-8", on December 23, most of it overnight. The small photos were taken with my mobile phone.

Then another 3-4" or so on Christmas Eve Day. And more overnight on Christmas Eve.
I love showing the patio furniture (which we did not get covered up this year before the snows came) -- because then you can see how much snow there is.

It has been beautiful but also a bit exasperating. We were not able to have our usual family Christmas Eve dinner celebration due to poor weather. We are having it on Sunday the 27th. Just safer and saner for all. It felt different not to be gathered together Christmas Eve in the evening, eating and laughing and enjoying each other as we do every year. But we made the best of it.

The 2009 Christmas Blizzard certainly was eventful!!

Annual Lefse Making

2009-12-26T14:58:00.012-06:00

Well! Seems it has been a while since I have posted!

Here is truly a highlight of every year. Our annual lefse making, on Christmas Eve morning. We had had 6-8" of snow, so we had to be flexible. My sis-in-law could not come, neither could daughter A. This year, a friend of mine joined us; this was her first time making lefse.

Grandpa was beaming and basically supervising. My job was mixing the batter--quite the messy job (basically you take mashed potatoes and add flour until it is still somewhat sticky). Then you roll out the batter as thin as possible and cook on the extremely hot griddle.

It was very enjoyable, as always. After we were done, we taste-tested the lefse. It is best spread with butter and brown sugar, and rolled up. (Some like it with white sugar). It was excellent!!

Sarah made one shaped like a heart! Pretty soon my friend, B., was looking like a pro on the griddle.

This is one special activity that we share together every holiday season. Even though we could not all be together in the usual way, we made the best of it, and we made memories in a new way. Great time!!

Deep Breath

2009-11-19T12:41:00.001-06:00

OK-I am taking a deep breath, and just embedding this video. This is me playing Schumann's Traumerei.

New Piece

2009-10-04T11:17:00.003-06:00

I have a new piano piece, Schumann's Traumerei. It is quite beautiful, played very subtly. Here is the interpretation by my favorite classical pianist, Vladmir Horowitz.

I tend to get the melody stuck in my head when I practice it, which is altogether not a bad thing.

Occasions II

2009-09-29T12:40:00.005-06:00

This wasn't a super family-oriented occasion, but it was definitely one that called for photos. Many, many photos. And beauty -- lots of beautification activities.

Yes, the Homecoming dance activities for A., who is a high school junior. I keep saying this, but I am continually amazed at how much beauty effort is put into the event, when all the girls are already pretty darn gorgeous.

But regardless, off she went, from one appointment to the next. Nails, hair, makeup. Oh, and the boutineer! Can't forget that!! Group photos were at 5:15pm. By then I was exhausted. And the event hadn't even started yet! (but of course it is not about me, anyway)

The photos were at one of the boy's homes. Super G and I went. It was hilarious, because the girls, when they saw her, said "C'mon G.! Come get in the photo!!" Must have made her feel about 10 feet tall.

All in all, a fantastic day-great weather, happy group of teenagers, parents just enjoying the experience. There was a parent get-together that occurred during the time of the dance, which sounded like a great way to relax and connect with parents. However, we had a dinner conflict that night (a Masonic charity dinner-which is why I am a bit dressed up here).

Another high school event!! Nice!

Occasions I

2009-09-29T12:21:00.004-06:00

We had a couple big family events over the past week or so. Here is the first one.

S. Confirmation-
Along with 150+ 9th graders, S. was confirmed in the Lutheran Church. This was a fun and meaningful event. Nice church service, beautiful music, family gathered, celebration. We were so grateful to have family and friends gather for her day. T's aunt & uncle from Michigan, my dad and brother, Tom's mom, sister and her husband. And some close family friends.

Sarah made her chocolate torte for everyone, which I really thought was special and showed her generous spirit. Oh my goodness, it was so delightfully rich!

Congratulations to her on deciding to affirm her baptism and for becoming a full-fledged member of our church.

New Beginnings

2009-09-09T11:20:00.007-06:00

Life is full of cycles. Fall brings an end to warm weather (at least here in MN), and of course school begins once more. New and old, new and old. Same schools, new classes, new locker, mostly new teachers, old friends and new.

I was again allowed to capture the morning kick-off in pics. Such natural joy and freshness in the faces of my 3 daughters!! It lifts my spirit.

Passages

2009-09-07T08:09:00.004-06:00

Life is truly precious, don't get me wrong. But sometimes, grace intercedes and makes an angel. Another star in the sky, shining brightly, peacefully.

This is how I think of a very special woman in my life. M. Peeders, my piano teacher. I knew her for a relatively short period of time. It is not for me to question, but somehow she became special to me in a way that is hard to describe. It's like the gift of a teacher, but more. You know, a guide, someone you admire, and is with you as you try to learn new things. She was very quiet and gentle, but her strengths were mighty. Her deep faith was evident. She lacked fear. She was steady.

How do I know all this? I don't. But it is what I sensed, apparent in the spirit that she emitted, that she represented.

There was something about her. An aptitude, quiet confidence. Not showy, just there. Doing her tasks, going through her day. She was a doer. I'm not sure, but I'm guessing that she rarely said no when asked to help or get involved. But to me, she appeared quiet, gentle, mild. A workhorse, never calling attention to itself. Steady, confident, reliable. Someone you would and could call upon.

Again, it is not for me to question why, but in May, 2008, she learned she had breast cancer. It had already spread to her bones. And so she and her husband girded up for a battle, which was to be the battle of her life. I was so inspired by her deep faith, hope and courage, as she journaled on her CaringBridge site. She was vulnerable in her posts about how treatments were going, sharing her feelings in the ups and downs of an aggressive, vicious disease.

She had such grace through it all. Always with a word of hope. A special, uplifting Bible verse or favorite hymn. What strength, to share her journey, strengths and weaknesses, with others.

Earlier in her cancer journey, this was the verse that she claimed:
Isaiah 41:10 "Do not fear, for I am with you. Do not be afraid, for I am your God. I will strengthen you, I will help you, I will hold you in my right hand."

Later, in 2009, she claimed this passage, from an anthem that our high school choir performed. She was their accompanist:
"O Lord, you are my hiding place throughout the storms of life and you surround me with songs that set me free. You are my refuge, I will trust in you."

She loved her piano students, young musicians, with energy and promise. When she was going through her first round of bone radiation, she wrote about how much she enjoyed watching the video of their recital. To see her students play, witness their progress, made her proud --in that quiet way that she had.

Yes, she did lose her battle and on Thursday, September 3, she entered the joy of heaven. I feel glad that her suffering is over. But I miss her--

May her special gifts be carried on by those she loved and by those that she touched.

Everyone Needs a Break

2009-09-02T15:13:00.015-06:00

...and I don't mean a broken leg.

A couple weekends ago we ventured to Kansas City on a family get-away. How nice!!

Highlights were:
- Harry S. Truman museum
- Having 2 hotel suites
- Swimming in the pool with Super G.

- Large breakfasts in the hotel
- RIBS, great bbq, burgers, and Krispy Kreme
- WWI museum
- Twins baseball game at beautiful Royals stadium
- No chores, no laundry, no work

But most of all...having fun together, enjoying each others' company.

The Felling of a Tree

2009-08-25T20:20:00.014-06:00

We had a tree cut down in the backyard. It wasn't the most healthy tree. Beforehand, our backyard was virtually completely in shade. I have had the hardest time growing flowers back there! Basically I felt constricted to hostas (fine for some--but I tire of them easily) and some other hardy shade perennials, plus some non-thriving impatiens.

The backyard had basically a canopy formed by the trees, which confined the feeling of space. Plus, it is an uphill backyard as well, so that made it feel even smaller.

Sometimes there are thick, unruly, overgrown things in our lives, that need to be pruned and cut away. Which brings freedom and "air" to us. To me, this could be an apology that I need to make, or expressing my honest feelings about something, instead of brooding and keeping to myself. That connection, whatever it may be, loosens the walls between us and frees us to move forward. It usually takes some effort, but it is definitely worthwhile in the end.

Now, with the tree gone, there is substantially more sun back there! I feel like I have a new backyard!! It is awesome.

Open space, afterward.

Birthdays!!

2009-08-19T06:46:00.007-06:00

Super G. had a birthday on Sunday. 9! I can hardly believe it.

There were some surprises in store. We took her and 2 friends, in blindfolds, to the "secret surprise place." It was Claire's, to get her ears pierced. It was awesome. Mostly because it was truly a surprise.
And a new camera. So the Awarded Photographer can snap away, endlessly to her heart's content.

Birthdays are special!! And this one was no exception...

She's a Natural!

2009-08-13T10:36:00.003-06:00

Just look what silliness I have to deal with on a daily basis!

She walked around with these on all day--

Some teenagers came over to hang out, and before I knew it, two of them had these on too!! Made, of course, by Super G.

What a laugh...

Daisies

2009-08-09T20:28:00.010-06:00

Here are a few photos of "T's Daisy Patch" in the walk-up garden. They are so full now, I will need to thin them out this fall, and definitely I will be spreading the wealth to different areas of the garden!

They are so bright and cheerful. Much as I'd like to be. As we look forward to another Monday morning in the life of an advertising math geek. :)

Milestone or Millstone?

2009-08-08T22:13:00.009-06:00

Today was quiet. Very, very quiet. We sent The Little Kid off to summer camp for 6 days. Middle Kid "Shorty" was up at summer camp, and returned this evening. Daughter #1 is away for the weekend.

OK, so life is weird. Funny. Ironic.

The thing about kids is, you dream of having them. Perhaps you are blessed with children. You love them fully. Even when they are sooo tiring, time-consuming, ride-requiring, hand-hold-outing, incessantly-texting, etc. etc.

But the point is, you raise them, essentially, to leave your care, and your home. To be independent, live a good life, find love and happiness.

Alright, alright, this is getting deep. But I think of other rites of passage. A friend of ours is experiencing one now. His house is empty now too -- no one but him and the cat. No beautiful wife of 40 years, humming to music, dancing, laughing. She lives in a new home now, with others that have memory issues. She is in her 50's. It seems so wrong. Too soon.

Both milestones. Going to camp. One spouse alone in a house without the other. Mixed feelings. Some fear involved.

May God help us with these feelings that we have. Face the fears. Grant us faith (the opposite of fear). And give us hope in the future, whatever it may be. I'm just sayin'.

Stunning in the Shade

2009-08-07T16:00:00.009-06:00

Here are a couple pics of my helleborus. I like this perennial in the backyard, especially since it is almost ALL shade back there, and I can't get much going there.

Or else we have rabbits who selectively eat pretty flowers that I try to get established, like black eyed susans.

It has rich, dark green-colored leaves, kind of shiny like rhododendron leaves. The blooms are very unique -- greenish white. So they blend in with the color of the plant overall. These pics were taken in shade, so they'd be even prettier in a sunny setting!

Softball!!

2009-07-29T16:55:00.011-06:00

It's been a while since I posted last.

Last weekend the Little Kid had a softball tournament. First they played 2 games. Then, the next day, they were seeded and put into a bracket.

Her team split the first 2 games--winning the first and losing the second. The third game, they won, which meant, win or lose, they would play 2 more games! They ended up getting 4th place. It was so much fun to watch!!

They are 3-4th graders. So cute...

The coach was super nice, patient, and took everything in stride. Helped them get better at their skills and was very encouraging. As a parent, it was very nice to see this--something that I don't take for granted.

Ah, the joys of summer fun!!

Bright Eyed

2009-07-14T20:48:00.007-06:00

This year I planted zinnias. My first thought was...my dad likes these, I think I will grow them. Then, after I planted them, I remembered how bright and colorful they are. Such vibrant colors, easy to take care of, they make a great contrast to the usual "regulars" of my flower gardens: columbine, purple salvia, daisies, achillea, etc. etc.

Today, I am reminded of how little I feel like these guys. I am tired, after having spent all day in the car driving back from Chicago. The weekend, full of catching up, birthday celebrating, hanging out, is over. Whew, I wish I had the energy that zinnias exude!

Anticipation

2009-07-08T07:15:00.002-06:00

The little kid, 8, is psyched to go to Chicago this weekend. How do I know? Since Sunday, she has been packing her bag. Actually putting everything into it and wheeling it around the house. We leave on Friday.

How endearing is that?

Jewels

2009-07-07T20:58:00.005-06:00

In the past year or so, I have been more in touch with the friends of my childhood, high school and college. There's a time in my life, it seems, where I wish to look back and reach out to those from my past. See what they are up to, how they have fared in life. Mostly just catch up and talk, and ideally (but not always possible) spend time together.

There are several college friends who live in town, as our college is roughly 40 miles from where we live. We meet for lunch once a month. I find with "old friends", that it is so easy to pick up where we left off!! We have the past in common--our experiences, how we used to talk of our hopes and dreams. How we knew each others' parents and background.

We hang out, eat, and share. We talk about books that we like, and then we share them! We talk about one of our kids graduating from high school, or going to college, or transitioning to adult life, what it's like to raise a teenager in these times. We've all had successes and personal tragedies.

To understand and be understood is one of the most cherished things in life. And so, I cherish these times with friends.

To me, fair friend, you never can be old
For as you were when first your eye I eyed,
Such seems your beauty still.
* William Shakespeare

And new friends too...

Michael Jackson Memorial

2009-07-07T11:29:00.001-06:00

Currently watching the Michael Jackson memorial.

Visit msnbc.com for Breaking News, World News, and News about the Economy

Ping Pong Hatched

2009-07-04T09:15:00.006-06:00

New butterfly hatched today. Always a miracle. I love when the chrysalis turns black. You can see through it--the butterfly markings are clearly visible.

After hatching, this one fell to the bottom of our little "cage." It landed feet up, wriggling like crazy, trying to grab onto something so that it could hang and dry its wings. I had to quick run outside and get a stick. Held it ever so carefully by the flailing legs, let it grab on. Here's a photo of me holding the stick, trying to figure out how the heck to get the little guy back into the cage so it could hang properly. You can also see the empty chrysalis, now clear.

Success! The wings look perfect. Once they open, we will be able to tell if it's a girl or a boy butterfly. Hatching anew is very tiring. The butterfly is hanging now, motionless, and will do so for hours.

(I shot this photo through the netting. With flash, you can't even tell!)

Butterfly Pics of the Day

2009-07-03T16:28:00.007-06:00

Yes, we are hatching butterflies again this summer! Here are a couple recent photos of different stages.
Cute, fat caterpillar. "J" stage. New in chrysalis.

The chrysalis photo--this was an interesting process. When it is ready, it goes from the "J" on the left, to the chrysalis on the right. The yellow parts of the caterpillar stripes slowly morph into green and then merge together. On the right, you can still kind of see the stripe markings of the caterpillar. The process takes oh about a 1/2 hour. It was pretty cool to watch.

We now have 3 in chrysalis, 5 caterpillars or various sizes, and one teeny one that just hatched. We should have a couple new butterflies in the next few days!

Royal Old Friend

2009-07-01T20:37:00.009-06:00

Every year this clematis breaks forth into bloom. It is amazing! It must be over 30 years old. It flows over the top part of the trellis, no matter how much I try to train it.

Often we take special photos by it.
Like this.
Or this.
Or just by itself.

This year is no exception. It is in fine form!!

Take a look at the very base of the clematis. See a little purple flower? It's a morning glory! Go figure. About 4" off the ground. I planted about half dozen from seed, with the idea that they will climb up the trellis and bloom later in the summer. Ah, well..

Dear Kate--Will you come have another photo op with our Royal Old Friend?? :D

The Pink Team

2009-06-28T10:22:00.007-06:00

Thursday was a beautiful day for a ball game! This was a rain makeup game from a few weeks ago. I always have a conflict on her regular game nights, so I was happy to be able to see this game!!

They won--and had fun doing it!!

This is S. and her good friend A. They've known each other since S. was really little-and they enjoy going to our church camp together, etc.

Twins Game in May!!

2009-06-21T09:48:00.008-06:00

Wow, I am so far behind in posting! Guess you have to start somewhere!!

In late May, we were guests in the skybox for a Twins game, against the Yankees. It was really a nice evening. There were hot dogs, chips, cookies etc. We could see everything!! S. and G. really enjoyed the game, cheering for the Twins. Here are a couple photos.

Thanks, John, for inviting us!! John is one of the Radio sales people that I work with. :)

H1N1 Virus

2009-05-07T15:17:00.002-06:00

Here is a nifty map, showing cases of the H1N1 Virus, swine flu.

View Larger Map

More About Spring

2009-04-23T11:54:00.011-06:00

The daffodils burst into bloom overnight. I can hardly believe it, but it is supposed to be close to 80 today.

Long time comin'!!

Spring is coming!!

2009-04-21T08:43:00.006-06:00

Here are a couple photos from the yard. Crocuses blooming in the sun. Plus an Easter lily. Happy Easter!

Pastor Carrie's Daily Lenten Devotion

2009-03-24T13:32:00.005-06:00

Hey, check this out. This is a nice, thought-provoking, blog, with a message for each day of Lent.

Today's topic-
Give us this day our daily bread… (Matthew 6:11)

It is written by Pastor Carrie-a former pastor at our church. She's pretty special.

Photo of the day

2009-03-21T20:59:00.002-06:00

Piano-Moving Forward!

2009-03-14T11:26:00.006-06:00

I am excited about piano. I was taking a break from lessons, due to time pressures, and some health issues that my piano teacher is experiencing. Now I am going to start taking lessons again, with my piano teacher-who is dear to me.

I have had the greatest lesson setup: I would take lessons at our local church (my teacher, MP, works there as an ass't organist and also at the church assisting the music and pastoral staff). What we would do, was schedule lessons every week or so, in the morning, after I got the kids to school. She would come in a little early that day, then slip down to a practice room, give me a lesson, then head back to her office, back to work, etc.

Well, last spring, she was diagnosed with breast cancer. It is metastatic cancer, meaning that the by the time the cancer was diagnosed, it had spread to her spinal system. She has been treating it through radiation and various drug therapies.

She continues to work and accompany the high school choir as she had done before, fitting in the treatments, doctor appts, etc. However, she had to cut down on some of her teaching commitments, due to lagging energy. Radiation can be quite tiring. Coming in early for our lesson became too tiring for her. So we suspended lessons for a while.

At any rate-about a week ago, she gave a wonderful, inspiring, beautiful piano recital. She selected pieces that allowed her to share about her personal life, her spiritual journey. Very special. This photo shows her and her husband after the recital.

We talked last week, and she is ready to take me on again as a student. Since I work for myself, I can be flexible about the time. I am pretty much at her disposal, and will come whenever she will have me.

I am so glad that I will have the benefit of her deft ear, guidance, motivation, technical skills, and just all around nice lesson experience. I am so blessed in this way.

And I greatly admire her courage, each and every day.

Recipe for a Great Day

2009-03-07T09:20:00.005-06:00

Ah, busy weekends. Today's mixture...

- Drive S. to softball practice
- See friends, rejuvenation
- Pick up S.
- Give blood (the gift of life)
- Hair appointment, take Super G. along for a cut too
- Errands, if time
- Dinner with fam
- Game nite with friends

Oh yeah!!

Piano Teacher's Piano Recital

2009-03-01T13:21:00.008-06:00

Today there will be a special treat. No, I don't mean the kind with sugar!! My piano teacher will be giving a recital. It is called: My Faith Journey Through Music.

There will be classical pieces and spiritual pieces. I know she is playing Grieg's Wedding Day at Troldhaugen, a piece that I am working on. I can't wait to hear her interpretation of it!! I am also guessing, predicting, that she will play Beethoven's Moonlight Sonata, because this is one of her favorite pieces.

She has had quite a journey this past 8-9 months, as last May she was diagnosed with breast cancer. She has now just finished her third round of radiation, treating the cancer in her bones. She has a great amount of hope, and she is one of the most unselfish people I've ever met. What a gift she is to me, and to so many others, through her music, and through her life example.

I know it will be a beautiful event. I can't wait to be still and listen.

Our Backyard

2009-02-28T15:06:00.008-06:00

Super G. and I took some photos of little critters out in the backyard today.

Fun!

Tab-A-Wheel!!

2009-02-26T19:40:00.006-06:00

This is a very cool thing.This was made By; GMH. The "wheels" are little shelves that spin. It comes in ALL!!! colors and can be custom made too.

That's all BYE :(

Snow!

2009-02-26T19:10:00.008-06:00

We are having a snowstorm. We had maybe 4-5 inches in the span of about 3 hours. Here is it after about 1" of snowfall. These photos were taken at about 1pm today. It was quite pretty. However, it wasn't so pretty when it came to shoveling!!

I managed to shovel half of one side of the driveway, and that was enough for my poor little back. I did not dare do any more. Husband was not feeling well, and the snowblower was out of commission. Ah, well. Didn't have the heart to ask a teenager to help (actually one of the two was sick).

I was planning to go out tonight with some friends, but opted to stay home where it is nice and warm, and away from traffic and unpredictable snowbanks. Plus-it is snowing again, and I'm not even sure that I can get out of the driveway!!

Maple tree in front yard...
Lamp in front yard by driveway...Birdfeeder and up the hill in the backyard...

Dinner-Masonic Historical Society

2009-02-25T13:33:00.010-06:00

Seems I have been remiss. Haven't posted in a while. I must confess. I am an addict. Yes, it is bad. Facebook. I am addicted to Facebook. It's a problem. Hence the lack of blog posts in recent months.

Last Saturday husband and I spent an enjoyable evening at the Minnesota Masonic Historical Society Museum dinner. The speaker was from D.C.-he is the curator for the George Washington Masonic Memorial. Cool.

Nice time!

Husband standing with the author. I'm standing with friend R.-who always has a bright smile.

Stunning

2009-02-16T14:17:00.004-06:00

What a beaut. Sweetheart Dance '09.
A. in the bright pink dress.

Happy Valentine's Day

2009-02-15T13:07:00.004-06:00

It was the night before Valentine's Day. I heard from one of the girls, "Don't look in the freezer -- there's a surprise in there!" Well, you may as well have invited me to look. I peeked in...mmm DQ cake. Yum.

I LOVE DQ cake. So do the girls. I never used to be a big dessert-eater (except for special occasions, of course). The past couple years, the valentine chocolates sat on top of the fridge for months. But this year--I was looking forward to some special sweets. What a great surprise.

Before we ate, I wanted to pose with my cake. See my bright smile, anticipation etched on my face??

Then...right after this photo was taken, my beloved husband said, "Oh, but the cake isn't just for you. It's for all the girls."

Oh.

I think he said that, because he is outnumbered.

Bright Spot

2009-02-01T13:56:00.008-06:00

S. just had a birthday...she's 14 now. I can hardly believe it.

As we were coming back from Caribou the morning of her birthday with one of her friends (which called for a celebratory White Chocolate Mocha with shot of raspberry), I reminisced about the day she was born.

S. is my second born. Our first daughter, A., was born in 4 hours, start to finish, 2 weeks before my due date. This is amazingly short, especially for a first child. All was fine, but the nurses and doctor had to really move quickly. Very, very quickly.

So in preparation for S.'s birth, we thought she had better be induced. So my OB planned the delivery. I would be induced, then maybe about 3-4 hours later, after his scheduled surgery, I would be ready for him to deliver the baby.

So we went in to the hospital at 9am. They broke my water, and I was give pitocin, to speed up the onset of labor, and in accordance with the schedule. From there, the careful planning pretty much went to he#@. Within about an hour, I had severe labor, and was progressing very, very rapidly. They called my doc with an update, and they determined that he wouldn't be done with the surgery in time to deliver my baby. So they called another doctor-no dice. Then they called another doctor. At this point, I was ready to push. But I had to wait. Finally, in came the Dr.! Once he was ready, I gave a couple pushes, and S. was born!

It was 11:45am. Whew. But yet, in about 15 minutes I was hungry and ready for lunch!

She couldn't wait to meet the world. And boy, am I glad she did!! She has always had a sweet, gentle, spirit. Her easygoing and ready smile lights up the room. She is definitely a bright spot in my life.

HBD, "Shorty!"

Response to Mom Song

2009-01-30T09:31:00.002-06:00

Here is the Mom Song Kid's Response to William Tell's Overture with Lyrics. Cute.

The very last part gives me hope. Just a little.

Too Funny

2009-01-28T10:36:00.004-06:00

This video is called the Mom Song. Hilarious.

I especially love the end. I don't know which is more ludicrous: that I've said that last phrase, or that I have actually expected it to work!!

Amazing Feat!

2009-01-17T14:25:00.005-06:00

This is our 2009 version of tossing water in the air at subzero temperatures, and watching it freeze in midair. G-awarded photog-took the video. It was taken 2 days ago, at -15 degrees.

Today it is 20. It feels so warm!! There is something so inherently absurd in that whole statement, and the fact that I am speaking it.

Last year's video...

Whewww!

2009-01-13T09:34:00.004-06:00

OK, it is Cold. Frigid. Freezing.

Check out the temp, willya??

(when this was the newest post, the arrow pointed to the temp in the right hand column.)

It is -13 as I write this. BRRR...!!!!

Happy Day in Studio C

2009-01-10T13:48:00.012-06:00

Thursday was a huge highlight for me. I was invited due to my work in advertising, to a live studio performance of the Fray. Incredible!

There were about 80-90 people there. I took daughter #1 (Xmas present), and we sat in the front row. They started with their new hit You Found Me. After that song, we realized that we could without much fuss take a live video. So A. shot How to Save a Life, acoustic version. Quite nice. The file is too big to upload to the blog...too bad...

It was such a thrill. I am still thinking about how great it was!!

Freedom

2008-12-15T14:05:00.004-06:00

I just received a gift. Had lunch with my two college friends, which we do every month. We had an ornament exchange.

I received a very nice Susan Lordi ornament. It is called "Happiness." Isn't it great?

To me it looks more like "Freedom." And for me, it has special meaning. Freedom is something that I can definitely relate to, and celebrate.

Thanks, friend!!

plant

2008-12-12T21:27:00.003-06:00

i got a new plant its pink green yellow its a croton its vary cool.VARYccccccccccccccooooooooooooooooooollllllll
(cool)i named it corcie!!!!!!

B&W

2008-11-23T11:35:00.002-06:00

A. was invited to a Sweet 16th party, Black & White was the theme, so everyone had to dress in black & white. So here she is with friend A. beforehand. Stunning...

Fireplace Photos

2008-11-23T11:23:00.006-06:00

Here are some after photos of our fireplaces. For Mike. These were taken yesterday...

The first one is the upstairs fireplace. If you look at the racetrack ceiling, you can see that adding the stucco only made the wall come out maybe 1/8" to 1/4". Not sure how to express this right, but hopefully it is understandable.

This is the downstairs fireplace. The stucco came in this color. (I can take a closeup of the texture if you like!). We will be able to paint this again, any color, if we wish.

About Fear

2008-11-11T14:10:00.006-06:00

There's a theme for today. Faith & Fear.

I read this recently:
Fear knocked on the door. Faith answered, and no one was there.

Sometimes I am ruled by fear. It affects my life -- in a bad way. But faith overcomes fear.

Fireplace more-for Mike

2008-11-05T13:58:00.010-06:00

Here are some more before photos. See the mesh ones, which show the preparation for stucco-ing. Putting the mesh on squared off the angles and made everything so that after the stucco was applied, it was all flat etc. It ultimately only added a fraction of an inch to the surface.

Now I just need to take some more after photos!

Halloween

2008-11-02T10:03:00.003-06:00

Halloween was fun this year. The weather was nice, which is amazing! We do not take this for granted here in Minnesota.

Here are some pics. I did not get photos of daughter #1. She was dressed as a "superstar".

Sign of the Times

2008-10-24T13:08:00.007-06:00

Our 8-year old brought home a worksheet the other day. It was about careers. On the left hand side, students were to put something they were good at. On the right hand side, they filled in what career might work for this skill.

So Super G.'s list was this (I kid you not):

SKILL...CAREER
Good at math...Teacher

Like to talk...Actress

Good at taking photos...Paparazzi

You bet!! I can just see it now...Super G. swarming around the crazed superstars of the 2020s-

...and then our beloved photographer getting the one-finger salute from said celebrity...

Carve Your Own Pumpkin

2008-10-23T12:14:00.003-06:00

Try this! It's fun!!

Carve your own pumpkin.

Here's mine-I am a horrible artist. But there you have it!!

HB Kate!

2008-10-17T07:54:00.005-06:00

Happy Birthday!!

Good for some laughs hopefully.

Have a fantastic day-thanks for being my cool Utah "cousin!"

With love-

Friday routine again

2008-10-10T11:23:00.003-06:00

Today-finally-we took up our schoolyear Friday routine. Taking a daughter or two to Caribou, right before school.

This year the 2 oldest girls are in different schools that start at different times. So while last year I could take both together, this year we need to split up.

So finally today, what, a full month since school started, we went to Caribou. S. celebrated the day by going without crutches for the first time in almost 2 weeks. Ah, a little hot choco, and real, rich coffee for Mom. Great way to start the day.

And thankfully, the Blue Bunny hat was not part of the attire...

Oh, So Helpful

2008-10-08T11:47:00.003-06:00

Teenager: "Hi Mom. Are you going anywhere today? Do you have any errands to do?"

Mom, thinking to self: "Wow this is great, she wants to help get some stuff done around here."

Mom, out loud: "Well, we could go over to *boring store* and pick up *this boring thing that we need*.

Teenager: "OK great. Mom, can I drive?"

*Mom slapping head*

Of course. The true motivation comes out...and yes, I am a little slow...

Homecoming

2008-10-06T10:19:00.005-06:00

Ah-what a day what a day...

Hair straightening-Friends & Group photos (I'm even in one!)

school picture

2008-10-03T19:06:00.003-06:00

next week is school picture day. I just picked out my outfit and I am wearing it right now. so I am right now because exitved!!!!!! Thats all bye.

I LOVE The White Sox

2008-10-01T08:08:00.005-06:00

Yes, it's true.

I LOVE THE WHITE SOX.

I was just afraid to come out, being here in Twins country and all. What a great team: There's Cabrera, K. Griffey Jr., Swisher, and of course, fan favorite A. J. Pierzynski.

They won a nail-biter last night against the Twins, 1-0, on a homer by Thome.

Good luck to them in the playoffs!

Are ya happy, G.W.??

Ha ha per your note-I'd love to see a photo of my Dad in a Chisox t-shirt. It would be so terribly WRONG...

Big Day in Baseball

2008-09-30T06:17:00.006-06:00

Ah, it is a big day in baseball today, for the Minnesota Twins.

Central crown comes down to one game
The Twins and White Sox, with identical records for the 162-game season, will play today for the American League Central crown, with the winner advancing to the playoffs.

Wow, what a day, what a day.

Hmm-I think my sis GW and I should have a real wager on this one. How about the LOSER has to wear the WINNER's jersey on the first day of the playoffs?? Yes? (oh, and I'd be happy to supply you with a jersey in time for the game...!!)

Nuthin' Better Right Now

2008-09-28T22:59:00.008-06:00

Well, if I have to work on a Sunday night, at least I am spending it with my friend Vladimir Horowitz. It doesn't really matter what he is playing, it is all good.

Listening as i am mindlessly entering page view #'s for a web site. Sauces & Potato Recipes-have a new meaning! Or at least kind of a different backdrop.

Horowitz is amazing and inspiring. *smile on my face*

Today

2008-09-27T13:07:00.004-06:00

Today is my 30th high school reunion. In Chicago. I am not there, because I just couldn't get there this time. Either I'd have to pay an exorbitant airfare price, or endure 2 8-hour drives over the span of a few days. With a bad back that option is not super appealing.

So in honor of my hs alma mater, I am wearing my school sweatshirt today. We used to be the New Trier East Indians. But years ago, NTE and NTW (Cowboys) have merged into one hs -- New Trier. They are the Trevians. Didn't know what that was myself, but it is like a warrior. Regardless, I couldn't find a sweatshirt with a Trevian on it, and anyway that wouldn't even feel right, because to me we are the Indians.

Ah-my head is in Chicago today, celebrating with my schoolmates...

Thanks Super G., for taking the photo...

Wouldn't Qualify

2008-09-25T22:30:00.006-06:00

Oh yes, I would definitely not qualify to be a blog included in the BlogHer network. They have guidelines about consistency of content, and frequency of posts. Yup, the frequency thing just would drop me right off the coveted blogroll.

OK, any readers out there may have gathered that this could possibly be a "filler" post...

Just not enough time-
- busy with work
- one daughter has sprained ankle which means we all need to pitch in a little more to help
- many other commitments
- driving children to and fro
Woe is me (actually not really).

Putting energy into other stuff...but good stuff at that.

Living life one day at a time.

This Day

2008-09-23T13:41:00.004-06:00

Post of the day...
Yet I have nothing to say...

First Day of School

2008-09-04T06:42:00.006-06:00

Alright -- I am a couple days late here...

We have a new high schooler-yes only the hand was provided for photo subject matter. And quite a nice hand it is!!

8th grader-Looking good, "Shorty"!!

3rd grader-Ready for what the day brings, as always!

Oh man, time is flying...and the house is strangely calm and quiet until, oh, about 3pm...

Family-Happy

2008-08-28T07:08:00.013-06:00

Last weekend we went to Chicago to celebrate a special event. My big brother's 50th bday. It was a surprise party. How fun! My sis-in-law organized the whole thing.

There are 130 some-odd people there, and it really was a special celebration. My bro's work associates (docs and nurses etc.) and friends were there, and I was so delighted to meet them. I played photographer and enjoyed interacting with them.

I also had the fun task of reaching out to his high school track mates. This was a bit of a challenge, as I had to do it stealth, without the use of his records of their contacts. I managed through their help to find a couple people that they had "lost!" I got to hear how they felt about D., some stories about him, and generally it was great and I felt helpful etc. But mostly, I felt proud of my big bro.

Here's a couple photos-bro & sis with D's wife G, with my parents, cousin S.

The next day, G. got to swim at their pool with her fun and very energetic cousin D., while we had a nice visit. This was after my bro did a swimming leg at the Chicago Triathlon. Hard core!

Beautiful Smile #2

2008-08-27T09:41:00.005-06:00

G. just got her expander off today. We have a before pic...

...and the after pics!! Yes, first thing she did after getting the expander off was pop in a piece of gum.

Nicely done Boo!

Family

2008-08-08T15:12:00.006-06:00

My parents are visiting from Chicago.

Here's a couple photos!

My dad did pretty good on the Wii, boxing even!!

Aloha-Part II

2008-08-06T05:31:00.006-06:00

Ok this is about 2 weeks late. But here is the AFTER photo from A's trip to Hawaii. Don't they look relaxed and sunny? The new bride radiant?

Aloha. Goodbye-Hawaii; hello-back to MN.

And A-always mugging for the camera.

Butterfly #3 Release

2008-07-30T13:22:00.003-06:00

This is out of order (oh heavens!), but here is butterfly #3. This one was a male, so I think it is Joe. Oh, I don't know anyway.

We were on our neighbor's deck. Our neighbor L doesn't have great vision but she could see this! as you can hear in the background.

4 New Ones

2008-07-30T13:07:00.003-06:00

We must have hit the motherlode of monarch caterpillar eggs. We have 4 new teeny weeny caterpillars. Here are 3 of them with my hand for reference.

There are 2 more eggs that hopefully will hatch in the next couple days.

fun fun!

Butterfly ReLEaSe

2008-07-21T17:11:00.003-06:00

This turned out pretty decent.

Butterfly #1

2008-07-20T07:06:00.006-06:00

She's beautiful and perfectly formed. Yes, she is a she. Dang, so much for the Jonas Brothers naming convention! I am a bit confused, as I thought this one was JOE, so perhaps a name like Josie would suffice.

But I am told this one is Nicolette! Alright. Fine.

She hasn't really eaten yet.

I think we will get some watermelon to supplement the sugar water-soaked tissue and peeled grape.

Aloha!

2008-07-18T08:34:00.005-06:00

Aloha! Yes, it means hello and goodbye. For us today it was goodbye to A., leaving for Hawaii with her friend M. and their family, as M's dad is getting married on the beach in Maui. For them it is...HELLO HAWAII!

I am so excited for them -- what a wonderful trip, surely to be very very memorable.

Here they are this morning...

Ah, I'll miss her.

But just think of all the savings in mileage while she's gone...and the eerily silent phone...

Softball Team

2008-07-16T21:41:00.004-06:00

This is our softball team, Purple Reign.

About 1/2 hour before this photo I sprained my ankle. Good thing I have shades on, as I was in quite a bit of pain. Oh yes, right after this photo I went to the ER!

S. is in the middle row below me, in red shorts.

We had a really fun season. The girls taught me a lot about enthusiasm, as in many games we were outmatched...but regardless of the score, they never cared and always had a positive attitude.

In one game we were behind by 10 runs and they were saying "oh, so what?" We came back to tie which to me was oh so fantastic, only to lose in the bottom of the last inning. To come back to tie, for me, was the biggest and best triumph of the season...

Flower Day

2008-07-11T17:14:00.009-06:00

OK, this photo has some goofy glare for some reason. This clematis every year is laden with blooms! I think it is 20-25 years old, from the previous owner.

We have a patch of Asiatic lilies along the front walk. Well, it was looking very tired last summer, didn't bloom very much. So last fall hubby and I (mostly him) planted oh about 100+ new bulbs. Here are the results!

Happy 4th!!

2008-07-07T19:44:00.014-06:00

Here are a couple photos of the parade, and Grandpa's bday later. There was a very nice calm beautiful dog, Bentley, that aunt C and uncle D brought and the girls were very interested in him.

These are our friends and one of G's very special Brownie Troop leaders (there are over 30 girls in the troop!!). They have 3 daughters just like us.

Da Boys

2008-06-30T23:49:00.008-06:00

Thanks to one of our gracious neighbors, we have 3 new monarch caterpillars. Ah, in the spirit of the Jonas Brothers craze, we have named them...Joe, Kevin, and Nick.
Joe is the cutest of the three and the biggest so far.

See the resemblance? Yah me neither.

Kevin

Oh no-I don't have a pic of caterpillar Nick!!

Ha ha, bet these guys thought they'd never be "honored" this way!!!

New Piece Schubert

2008-06-25T17:13:00.002-06:00

Hi-

This is my new Schubert piece. It is mostly scales!! But is it fun to play. This is the interpretation that I am emulating.

God Bless my teacher who has introduced this piece to me and has confidence that I can play it!

Happy Birthday AB!

2008-06-19T16:54:00.013-06:00

Happy Birthday!! 15, can't believe it.

Yes, we followed your request for NO SIGNS on the front windows. *sigh*

Friend came woke you up took you to breakfast nice! Dinner with friends too great!

Hope you had a great day. You are special and I love you.

Piano Recital

2008-06-17T10:57:00.004-06:00

Thanks to A for taking the video.

This piece, Grieg's Notturno, is dedicated to my piano teacher. :)

First of more public playing to come i hope.

The photos at the end-are of me, S's clarinet teacher, & S, after the recital. (my teacher could not attend that day...)

Fever!

2008-06-16T15:12:00.005-06:00

S. is not feeling well.

Yes, she has a very serious malady. Causes you to burst out singing spontaneously without warning. Causes you to download random tunes that are someone's favorite (Stevie Wonder even). Causes you to plaster your room with posters.

Yes, the illness is this.

JBOD

That is, Jonas Brothers Obsessive Disorder.

If I hear one more thing about Camp Rock, I think I may scream...

Beautiful Day

2008-06-14T08:54:00.004-06:00

Ah what a beautiful day. Walk-up garden starting out pretty nice!

We've got Papa's Daisy Patch in the front, coral bells right forground, cosmos, blue salvia, columbine.

Weigelia blooming like crazy.

Done Good

2008-06-13T08:47:00.002-06:00

I dropped off A. the other day at her soccer game. I had to run to the post office to mail an important letter. So I said, "I'll be back in about 20 minutes. Now-don't do anything good in the game, right? So I don't miss it?"

And off I went.

Upon my return, ah, she said "Hi Mom! I made a goal!"

Ooh. "But wait! You promised not to do anything good while I was gone!!" *joking*

"That's OK Mom. It wasn't a really great one. It was kind of sloppy."

I'm like: "Every goal you make is a good one!"

It was kind of a dumb request for me to have anyway.

Quote of the Day

2008-06-11T08:31:00.001-06:00

Daughter with upcoming bday: Have you gotten my birthday present yet?

Mom: Uh, no, not yet...but your birthday is next week...

Daughter with upcoming bday: Oh great -- it's going to be crummy!

Thank you JL!

2008-06-05T23:30:00.003-06:00

Hi-

Thank you really falls short of what I want to say -- about you as a teacher. G. has thrived this year under your tutelage and care. Your confidence in your academic/teaching skills is evident. Your care for the students is also evident! The children are your best witness to this!! You are bright and caring and yes-we appreciate it very much.

I hear that you are taking a year off? OK actually I have no idea if this is true but now I have blogged about it, so it is "published" jk...7 year old report may not be accurate... If so... this is great-so fantastic. This time with your daughter and family is so precious. I commend you for doing this.

Thanks for a great year! Again to me "thanks" falls a bit short. You know what I mean hopefully!!

Impressive!!

2008-06-05T22:40:00.001-06:00

OK-this is 10 minutes but if you have the time take a listen. Vladmir Horowitz. Hmmm-wonder if I could play this. OK NOT!!!

Beautiful. Seems understated to say though...